Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Private

    Batallion:

    6th Engineer Battalion

    Division:

    6th Marine Division

    Action Date:

    June 20, 1945

    Commander in Chief, Pacific: Serial 59156 (January 10, 1946)

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private Clarence Fred Weiss (MCSN: 975035), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as an Armored Bulldoze Operator, serving with Headquarters and Service Company, Sixth Engineer Battalion, SIXTH Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands on 20 June 1945. Highly vulnerable in the open cab of his bulldozer, Private Weiss courageously moved ahead of the infantry into shattering Japanese artillery, mortar and small arms fire to pioneer a road essential for a planned tank assault upon an enemy held ridge line and, pressing grimly forward in his cumbersome vehicle, successfully complete his mission. Mortally wounded, while working his way back to friendly lines, when a suicidal enemy soldier threw two satchel demolition charges into the open cab, Private Weiss, by his fortitude, determination and devotion to duty had enabled the tanks to achieve their objective, thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.